"تقرير عسكري عن بلاد الرافدين (العراق)" [ظ‎‎٣‎٨] (٢٢٦/٨١)

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The most outstanding personality in the tribe is
Sulaiman Agha, the paramount chief. In 1921 his
attitude was thoroughly pro-British. Placed in a difficult
position, he is forced to keep a foot in both the Turkish
and Arab camps. A genial personality, he is prepared to
play a straight game if strongly supported by Govern
ment. Muhammad ibn Haji Qadir is the most influential
personage after Sulaiman Agha. He took a prominent
part in the Tel Afar disturbances, and has since proved
intractable. In July, 1921, he was still with Bilaibil.
Punitive measures may be considered as under: —
(a) Terrain .—The Girgiriyah country lies between
Hogena and Zummar, rolling downs cut by low ranges
of hills, and commanding the main Nisibin-Mosul road.
At Hogena there is a gap in a low ridge of hills running
from north-east to south-west, which is known as the
Hogena Gate, and through which passes the Nisibin-
Mosul road. A defensive position exists at this place,
but it could be easily turned from either flank.
(b) Routes .—Girgiriyah country is traversed by the
Mosul-Nisibin road, which, though in need of repairs, is
favourable for L.A.M. cars. A motor road fit for Ford
vans also runs between Hogena and Zummar. In other
parts of the territory tracks passable for pack and camel
transport exist.
(c) Water .—Perennial supply for two cavalry regiments
can be obtained at all villages. At Hogena there is
enough throughout the year for one division. Facilities
for watering horses must be carried by operating forces.
(d) Tactical Points .—The chief tactical point is the
village of Hogena.
(e) Punitive action may therefore take the form of
intensive bombing of villages and flocks on the occupation
of Hogena and other villages. Supposing the Girgiriyah
alone were causing trouble, one regiment of cavalry
would be sufficient to bring the tribe to heel.
Girgiriyah Villages.
Village.
Population.
Hogena
.. 255
Mafri
.. 300
Tel Mus
.. 180
Kahriz
.. 160
Girfar
.. 100
Ain Hulwa ..
.. 130
Qasr Seruj ..
.. 315
Abu Wazna..
.. 150
Chief.
Sulaiman Agha.
Muhammad al Hana
Qadir.
Sulaiman Agha.